So I've started drawing comics again, for my new project. I need to bully my brother into setting up the main website, as I have already produced the front page of it.
Drawing comics again wasn't as hard as I thought it would be... maybe because it's something new, IDK. It all seemed rather routine. Draw the pages, scan the pages, ink the pages, colour the pages, shade the pages, special effects the pages, text the pages, finish the pages. Of course it takes flipping forever. I'll have to experiment with shading technique. I spend far too long on shading. Colouring is just a fill tool, but shading is important. and I've become a stickler for it. I'm trying to do as many pages as I can together, so I have a backlog for when I go back to Cornwall. I figure a twice a week update schedule is pretty good. I can maintain that. Once I have enough I'm going to start putting NPC pages in there too. If I'm going to draw comics I might as well draw the one I love the most. And time to get to that damn finale. Hopefully I don't screw it up T^T.
So yeah, I feel very productive so far this holiday. Usually I just laze around. but so far I've gone actively out searching for graphic novels, I've sketched a good 8 pages of my new comic, I've got the title page done, need to finish shading the first page. it's like 8 panels long, so it's taking a while. I'm going to try and cut down on panel's in future. Other graphic novels might like to spam themselves with panels, but I don't. I'm used to telling the story in six panels. so I find myself getting to the 6th panel and finding I still have space on my A4 page. So I'm going to need to play with layout... I also need to remember I don't have to do full body shots in every single panel. that's what takes up the most time. :T but I think I've done well so far. the story has a good flow. Or at least I think so. ^^(). We'll see. hopefully I'll finish page 1 today, get my brother to show me how to put up my website. start designing the site, and then sorted~ This is going to be a fun project.
Monday 18 April 2011
Thursday 14 April 2011
six years later....
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/13/george-rr-martin-game-thrones
I couldn't help but feel excited when I went to the London Book Fair this year, and when looking through one of the book catalogs (Voyager I think... or maybe Harper Collins.. ) that I noticed that his latest book was coming out soon. Of course I probably could have found this out sooner if I bothered to keep track of authors online... But it wasn't until reading this article did I realize how long I have been waiting for the new installment of A Song of Ice and Fire.
I bought the series in 6th form, that wonderful two years where I read more books than most people read in a life time. And it was in this period that I read George Martin's series. A song of Ice and Fire is definitely one of the book series that inspired me as a writer. It's what made me move away from more Tolkien'esk fantasy and start considering how dark and complicated Fantasy can be. (Not to say Tolkien's work is not complicated, but as a formula it's rather simple. Go forth and kill bad guy.)
You had many factions, many characters, things were never in a straight line. You would have one character who is portrayed as a villain for two books, and then in the third he changes and develops and you can't help but adore him. Characters are not pure, they're complicated beings. It was so magical reading it. I wanted more, hungered for more. and then of course, year after year of waiting....
Yeah.... I get why fans get angry and harassed the guy. Six years is a long time to wait for a book. I suppose Robert Jorden's death did not help at all, in fact I imagine the harassment got worse afterward, fueled also by the news of Terry Pratchett's Alzheimer's. George Martin is pretty old. and when you read the series you can get why fans have been harassing him. I would think it was more hysterical harassment than malicious. People who loved the story so much they didn't want to lose it. They want an ending.
Though I wouldn't condone it, his books are pretty large, and not everyone has the worth ethic of Stephan King. It doesn't surprise me it's taken 6 years to complete. Though I would have preference it sooner. It's not going to stop me buying it. Though I really need to find all my books of his to read again. I keep losing A game of Thrones. Seriously. I own two copies of the book. How do I keep losing yooooou?
I couldn't help but feel excited when I went to the London Book Fair this year, and when looking through one of the book catalogs (Voyager I think... or maybe Harper Collins.. ) that I noticed that his latest book was coming out soon. Of course I probably could have found this out sooner if I bothered to keep track of authors online... But it wasn't until reading this article did I realize how long I have been waiting for the new installment of A Song of Ice and Fire.
I bought the series in 6th form, that wonderful two years where I read more books than most people read in a life time. And it was in this period that I read George Martin's series. A song of Ice and Fire is definitely one of the book series that inspired me as a writer. It's what made me move away from more Tolkien'esk fantasy and start considering how dark and complicated Fantasy can be. (Not to say Tolkien's work is not complicated, but as a formula it's rather simple. Go forth and kill bad guy.)
You had many factions, many characters, things were never in a straight line. You would have one character who is portrayed as a villain for two books, and then in the third he changes and develops and you can't help but adore him. Characters are not pure, they're complicated beings. It was so magical reading it. I wanted more, hungered for more. and then of course, year after year of waiting....
Yeah.... I get why fans get angry and harassed the guy. Six years is a long time to wait for a book. I suppose Robert Jorden's death did not help at all, in fact I imagine the harassment got worse afterward, fueled also by the news of Terry Pratchett's Alzheimer's. George Martin is pretty old. and when you read the series you can get why fans have been harassing him. I would think it was more hysterical harassment than malicious. People who loved the story so much they didn't want to lose it. They want an ending.
Though I wouldn't condone it, his books are pretty large, and not everyone has the worth ethic of Stephan King. It doesn't surprise me it's taken 6 years to complete. Though I would have preference it sooner. It's not going to stop me buying it. Though I really need to find all my books of his to read again. I keep losing A game of Thrones. Seriously. I own two copies of the book. How do I keep losing yooooou?
Friday 8 April 2011
How to handel Negative feedback
Hm, haven't had a negative comment about my writing in quite a long time, I almost forgot how aggressive people can be...
As a comic artist I have experienced haters of my comic. When I was young and foolish I would argue with them, but as I got older I would debate with them. Both probably foolish things to do because I knew my art wasn't fantastic and my spelling and grammar will probably never be brilliant. But when it comes to things like this it's like your pride on the line. After all you sit around and produce these things freely for other people, and someone basically comes along and gobs in your face.
The best approach is to simply ignore them. In my exspirance this is the best method, mainly because it'll turn into a haters Vrs fans showdown. You can sit on the imaginary sidelines smiling to yourself at the amount of love and devotion you have created through your work, that you don't have to fight for your own honour, because people will do it for you.
So here is my advice on how to handle Negative feedback. Stop being crap, make a loyal fan base, and watch them duke it out. Then laugh like the evil mastermind you clearly are. Bwuhahahahahahahahaha.
As a comic artist I have experienced haters of my comic. When I was young and foolish I would argue with them, but as I got older I would debate with them. Both probably foolish things to do because I knew my art wasn't fantastic and my spelling and grammar will probably never be brilliant. But when it comes to things like this it's like your pride on the line. After all you sit around and produce these things freely for other people, and someone basically comes along and gobs in your face.
The best approach is to simply ignore them. In my exspirance this is the best method, mainly because it'll turn into a haters Vrs fans showdown. You can sit on the imaginary sidelines smiling to yourself at the amount of love and devotion you have created through your work, that you don't have to fight for your own honour, because people will do it for you.
So here is my advice on how to handle Negative feedback. Stop being crap, make a loyal fan base, and watch them duke it out. Then laugh like the evil mastermind you clearly are. Bwuhahahahahahahahaha.
Sunday 27 March 2011
The news
I'm debating whether or not to continue to read the paper. well... the online stories. Because I don't read the paper. I get it second hand off their website. The news seems so very hysterical as of late. Me and my friend was discussing whether or not things have gotten worse lately in the world. there seems to be so many terrible natural disasters. But then again maybe media coverage these days has gotten so much better that you simply just hear about every single one, instead of the really bad ones. Or maybe we don't know if they did or not, simple because we wern't reading the news ten years ago.
It's all rather depressing. Japan, Libya, New Zealand. Things happening in other places where you can not really make a difference. Your opinion or your efforts wont really make a difference. We're just insignificant blops on the map and the news is never going to affect us.
I mean, I actually tried to get excited over a story about Falmouth and how it wasn't going to get a larger dock because of some Algae. I tried so hard to feel like this was important, and affecting me. but it doesn't. I don't come from Cornwall, the long term affects of this doesn't affect me or anyone I know or anyone in my family. the least I can do is feel a little supportive for Falmouth. Simply because I understand why a larger dock is important to Cornwall, just in the same way I know the air strikes in Libya are important to protect citizens. Doesn't affect me or anyone I know, but it's happening.
I did get more into the wikileaks thing and the student protests. Mainly because I agree with free speech, no matter what the form, and I'm a student, thus student protests are important to me. But still didn't get involved... But I have to respect the passion that those students have. I wish I had a similar passion sometimes. But when given the chance to go down to London for the day I thought "naw that's going to end badly" and passed on it.
I like to think I'm an optimist, but maybe I'm a pessimist, or just a predictamist. Seeing I'm reasonably good at calling things before they happen. IDK... the world is a complicated place. and you wonder sometimes where you stand in that world. Maybe this is why the Daily Mail is always full of people stories, because they know that people like to hear that other people matter, because it might mean they matter. Maybe only a little bit.
It's all rather depressing. Japan, Libya, New Zealand. Things happening in other places where you can not really make a difference. Your opinion or your efforts wont really make a difference. We're just insignificant blops on the map and the news is never going to affect us.
I mean, I actually tried to get excited over a story about Falmouth and how it wasn't going to get a larger dock because of some Algae. I tried so hard to feel like this was important, and affecting me. but it doesn't. I don't come from Cornwall, the long term affects of this doesn't affect me or anyone I know or anyone in my family. the least I can do is feel a little supportive for Falmouth. Simply because I understand why a larger dock is important to Cornwall, just in the same way I know the air strikes in Libya are important to protect citizens. Doesn't affect me or anyone I know, but it's happening.
I did get more into the wikileaks thing and the student protests. Mainly because I agree with free speech, no matter what the form, and I'm a student, thus student protests are important to me. But still didn't get involved... But I have to respect the passion that those students have. I wish I had a similar passion sometimes. But when given the chance to go down to London for the day I thought "naw that's going to end badly" and passed on it.
I like to think I'm an optimist, but maybe I'm a pessimist, or just a predictamist. Seeing I'm reasonably good at calling things before they happen. IDK... the world is a complicated place. and you wonder sometimes where you stand in that world. Maybe this is why the Daily Mail is always full of people stories, because they know that people like to hear that other people matter, because it might mean they matter. Maybe only a little bit.
Monday 14 March 2011
How to Emote
'Emotes' or 'Emoticons' are what people use to express emotion and expression over the internet. They're there for when you feel words aren't strong enough to communicate what you mean. An emote can be the difference between a sarcastic remark or a witty joke. Because let's face it, we don't write actions for ourselves during internet conversation. So, I am conducting a list of emotes and what they mean. Well, at least what they mean to me. I hope this is helpful to someone.
:-) = the smiley face, to basically smile at something. It can also be simplified to :) other versions of this face are:
:-) = the smiley face, to basically smile at something. It can also be simplified to :) other versions of this face are:
:>
:-]
c: / C:
OwO
OvO
OuO
:-( = The sad face. To show when you are displeased or upset about something, it of course can be simplified to ): . Other versions are:
:<
:-[
:c / :C
O^O
:-S = The confused face. Obviously when you're confused. Other versions are:
o_@
@_@
@.@
o.@
:3 = The Kitty face. I like to use this as a cute smiley face, also to seem as curious or inquisitive if used with a question mark, :3? Now I like to over emphasizes they kitty face with the use of the 8 in exchange of : eyes. I think it just gives the emote a sort of wide eyed intensity. 83 It's like those eyes are staring more keenly are you, waiting for answers.
:D = Super happy face or the grin face. Again I like to super emphasize the grin with the use of the 8. I just think it looks better. 8D, see? Doesn't it just make it look all the more enthusiastic about its happiness? Of course you get its opposite, super sad face. D: or D8, see doesn't the eight make it seem all that more devastated? Never under estimate the power of an 8, it can add so much more meaning in some cases.
:o = surprised or shocked. I don't actually use this one a lot, or really at all... But the 8 rule still applies. 8o haha, it looks so much more surprised.
The x rule = I've talked about adding 8's but not x's. Like 8's x's can be used to change an emote. it's usually used to exspress dead eyes. like:
X___X
X(
But it can also be used to emphases other things as well like xD generally translates into laughter as it's generally used when finding something funny, just as Dx is used when you find out something terrible or when overly frustrated. Generally you can use an x for eyes in any emotes, and each one can convey something different. xC I find looks like someone is uber sad or upset, while Cx looks like you find something whimsically amusing. It's good to play around with it, as unlike 8, x can look like more than an over emphasis.
>:-( = Angry face, generally has the same variants as the unhappy face, but I like to think each alternative is a different stage of angry.
>:C
>:-[
D:<
>8C
Hahaha, uber mad face brought to you by the letter 8.
>.< = The Urgh! face. It's like the angry face but it's generally used in 'OMG can't believe that' sort of moments. The moments that make you just frustrated for the moment. I like to think it is different from the angry face, it's more the frustrated face.
>:-) = devil/mischief/evil face, like the angry face, it has many different variations.
C:<
>:-]
>:D
>8D
^^ = The cute happy face, I guess it's the more kawiii face. It's just happy eyes. you can also do it like this ^_____________^ I think the longer the line, the more smug or happy you are. Measure your happiness today.
O__O = the stare, I don't think I use :o much because I use the stare instead. Naturally you have different kinds of stares.
o___o
o__O
o.o
O.O
O_< = this is more combination of the stare and URGH!
Remember, the line generally show the level of awkward staring time. Longer the line, the longer the stare. I know it's weird rules, but that's just how it works.
:T = The fed up face. Or the skeptical face. For those moments when you think, "Really? Just really?"
:P = cheeky stick tongue out face, who sticks out their tongue in real life? Children that's who. A childish smiley, but it gets overused. I like to think of it as a sign of assured smugness, rather than cheekiness. Mainly because I use YM, and the :P smiley on that always looks so smug!
And that's it for now, I can't really think of many more... there are probably loads. Never under estimate the importance of emotes in internet conversations!
Thursday 10 March 2011
Just an Offer
"What's that?"
"Oh, it's that thing from the Post Office, I got a package."
"Oh yeah I see. Do you know where the collection place is?"
"No."
"If I didn't have the hospital tomorrow I would go get it for you."
"But look, it's open till 8 O clock today. You could get it for me now."
"Uh....... No. I'm going to go see my friend quick...."
"...But..."
"Just need to pick up something, be back in a minute!"
...
>.>
<.<
>.<
"Urgh, screw it I'll just get it re-posted."
"Oh, it's that thing from the Post Office, I got a package."
"Oh yeah I see. Do you know where the collection place is?"
"No."
"If I didn't have the hospital tomorrow I would go get it for you."
"But look, it's open till 8 O clock today. You could get it for me now."
"Uh....... No. I'm going to go see my friend quick...."
"...But..."
"Just need to pick up something, be back in a minute!"
...
>.>
<.<
>.<
"Urgh, screw it I'll just get it re-posted."
Sunday 27 February 2011
Damn
I hate forced game social things, I don't want to be social on your damn game network. I want to play my damn game. Stop forcing me to make accounts on your damn websites, just so you can send me damn emails, about damn things I do not give a damn about.
I hate it when you have to download several hundred updates separately for games. Why don't you change your damn update system so that they download every single last update together? It is not bloody helpful if you have a bazillion updates and someone has bought a game two years after release. It's annoying, okay? Update your update systems.
I hate it when games comes with things they could have taken out when they re-released the game, instead of forcing you to download an update to get rid of the damn thing that they could of taken out before selling you the damn game
I hate long boring game openings, definitely when the players game play is restricted for the first thirty minutes. Someone needs to sort out the damn pacing of your damn game if your damn players aren't playing the damn game in the first ten minutes.
.I hate it when they use forced game social things in the game so you actually have to sign up to save your game. Definitely when the social thing is just a social thing and not a way to ensure you haven't stolen the damn game.
Stop adding things that you think will make the game fun or more complicated, and just let us play your god damn game!
And yes, I laugh at those who use PS3, for you will soon share the PC players fate! Bwuhahahahahahaha!
I hate it when you have to download several hundred updates separately for games. Why don't you change your damn update system so that they download every single last update together? It is not bloody helpful if you have a bazillion updates and someone has bought a game two years after release. It's annoying, okay? Update your update systems.
I hate it when games comes with things they could have taken out when they re-released the game, instead of forcing you to download an update to get rid of the damn thing that they could of taken out before selling you the damn game
I hate long boring game openings, definitely when the players game play is restricted for the first thirty minutes. Someone needs to sort out the damn pacing of your damn game if your damn players aren't playing the damn game in the first ten minutes.
.I hate it when they use forced game social things in the game so you actually have to sign up to save your game. Definitely when the social thing is just a social thing and not a way to ensure you haven't stolen the damn game.
Stop adding things that you think will make the game fun or more complicated, and just let us play your god damn game!
And yes, I laugh at those who use PS3, for you will soon share the PC players fate! Bwuhahahahahahaha!
Friday 25 February 2011
Rune Factory 3
Harvest Moon was one of those games I actually got to play as a kid. It's really silly on reflection to like a game about farming. Which is all it is. A game about farming. That's it. Nothing else. You farm. Oh, and in the new ones you can marry someone and have babies.
So I guess it was really logical that they tried to make farming a little more exciting by making Rune Factory. Which is basically Harvest Moon, plus monsters and dungeons. And Rune Factory is great, it has a story somewhere buried within it. But the problem which Harvest Moon and Rune Factory had was well... the other characters were bland, the stories weren't too interesting, there was nothing really driving the plot on but yourself. And it is still farming. Not that I hate that, I love the farming.
But Rune Factory 3.... is possibly the best Harvest Moon type game I have played yet. Now not to say I don't like the other Harvest Moon's. I love them all. Even if the possible husbands or wives are bland, and after a while it gets repetitive and boring. They're all good games, except maybe Rune Factory 2. I never got far in Rune Factory 2, mainly because you couldn't pick up things and put them back on the ground. (like logs and stones. not fruit and veg in your hands.) That never rubbed the right way with me, when no other Harvest Moon game does that.
Two of these games came out in the last year, (perhaps longer, release dates for these games take an age to get to the UK, I had to get an early copy off eBay for Rune Factory 3.) But these two games are really different. Now maybe Rune factory 3 is better because it was developed by Natsume, and the newest Harvest Moon: Sunshine Islands, was made by Rising Star games.(I guess Natsume sold it off after Island of Happiness?) But I don't think that matters. Sunshine Islands is good in its old schoolness, plus something a little new and different, but ultimately it's just Island of Happiness again, but with islands instead of new bits of the land being unlocked (plus you can't develop the islands... okay... maybe Island of Happiness is the superior...)While Rune Factory 3 is trying to be a lot more different.
First, it is actually trying more in this game to move the plot a long. There is no running around trying to find it. You have a goal, you reach that goal, you are given a new goal. Plus you now can do missions. Which really is more fun, and also drives on the story. The characters have more than 2 lines per season. so they actually seem like proper characters. And you have a better reason to go around town talking to them all, because you're not getting the same repeated line every single day. If you do the side missions you can actually end up developing the characters. So there is more than a point to doing them than just getting the rewards. The whole game just seems so much better because the amount of detail which seems to have gone into the other characters in the game. Plus the festivals are just so cute. They're more like mini-games than anything. The fishing is more challenging. You don't have to spend so long in the morning farming, so you can actually spend a good deal of time in the dungeons rather than wasting your time everyday watering your field.
I'm always saying to people who are new to these games "If you can make it through the first month, you'll really get the game." because generally it can take that long to really get into it, because you spend so much time trying to make money. While it's the same, you have so much more to do, that the first month is fun. It's genuinely fun. And maybe that is because all the characters in it are fun to talk to, the missions add more to the game. Farming doesn't dominate your time.Of course, I might play through to winter and find that their talk does eventually get repetitive. But so far there is enough variation of things the characters say that you don't notice so much, and it doesn't become grating. I did find it annoying at first that the clock still runs while you're in buildings. But, really, it doesn't matter. It's probably there to balance things out considering how quick you can get farming done. If you play this game and are wondering what I'm talking about because watering your crops takes you half a day. Then I say you should experiment with your watering technique. ;)
So I guess it was really logical that they tried to make farming a little more exciting by making Rune Factory. Which is basically Harvest Moon, plus monsters and dungeons. And Rune Factory is great, it has a story somewhere buried within it. But the problem which Harvest Moon and Rune Factory had was well... the other characters were bland, the stories weren't too interesting, there was nothing really driving the plot on but yourself. And it is still farming. Not that I hate that, I love the farming.
But Rune Factory 3.... is possibly the best Harvest Moon type game I have played yet. Now not to say I don't like the other Harvest Moon's. I love them all. Even if the possible husbands or wives are bland, and after a while it gets repetitive and boring. They're all good games, except maybe Rune Factory 2. I never got far in Rune Factory 2, mainly because you couldn't pick up things and put them back on the ground. (like logs and stones. not fruit and veg in your hands.) That never rubbed the right way with me, when no other Harvest Moon game does that.
Two of these games came out in the last year, (perhaps longer, release dates for these games take an age to get to the UK, I had to get an early copy off eBay for Rune Factory 3.) But these two games are really different. Now maybe Rune factory 3 is better because it was developed by Natsume, and the newest Harvest Moon: Sunshine Islands, was made by Rising Star games.(I guess Natsume sold it off after Island of Happiness?) But I don't think that matters. Sunshine Islands is good in its old schoolness, plus something a little new and different, but ultimately it's just Island of Happiness again, but with islands instead of new bits of the land being unlocked (plus you can't develop the islands... okay... maybe Island of Happiness is the superior...)While Rune Factory 3 is trying to be a lot more different.
First, it is actually trying more in this game to move the plot a long. There is no running around trying to find it. You have a goal, you reach that goal, you are given a new goal. Plus you now can do missions. Which really is more fun, and also drives on the story. The characters have more than 2 lines per season. so they actually seem like proper characters. And you have a better reason to go around town talking to them all, because you're not getting the same repeated line every single day. If you do the side missions you can actually end up developing the characters. So there is more than a point to doing them than just getting the rewards. The whole game just seems so much better because the amount of detail which seems to have gone into the other characters in the game. Plus the festivals are just so cute. They're more like mini-games than anything. The fishing is more challenging. You don't have to spend so long in the morning farming, so you can actually spend a good deal of time in the dungeons rather than wasting your time everyday watering your field.
I'm always saying to people who are new to these games "If you can make it through the first month, you'll really get the game." because generally it can take that long to really get into it, because you spend so much time trying to make money. While it's the same, you have so much more to do, that the first month is fun. It's genuinely fun. And maybe that is because all the characters in it are fun to talk to, the missions add more to the game. Farming doesn't dominate your time.Of course, I might play through to winter and find that their talk does eventually get repetitive. But so far there is enough variation of things the characters say that you don't notice so much, and it doesn't become grating. I did find it annoying at first that the clock still runs while you're in buildings. But, really, it doesn't matter. It's probably there to balance things out considering how quick you can get farming done. If you play this game and are wondering what I'm talking about because watering your crops takes you half a day. Then I say you should experiment with your watering technique. ;)
Monday 21 February 2011
Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
Ghost Trick is the latest game from the producers of Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney. It's the only reason why I bought it, I love the Ace Attorney games, if you've never played them you should, the stories in them are simply fantastic, it's amazing game writing. but I must say when I first saw this game in the shop before I knew it was written by them the cover really did turn me off. The title and the cover are just... well bad. I really don't like the emphasis on 'ghost trick' in the game, it's like they're trying to make a tag line, and I really don't think that works in video games. It's just annoying. But yeah, the art style they've gone for with the character profiles are too... kid friendly. Considering this really isn't a kid game. It's a game about murder, you watch people die in it. You can be a little more complex with the art style guys. I suppose I just didn't like the main characters design, and he's on the cover, with his ridiculous pointy hair do. I know there's a thing in the gaming industry where if you're making a brand game which will have possible sequels then you need a distinguishable character. But considering the plot twist at the end, they really didn't need to make him look like a pointy penis head.
But whatever, that's just Japanese design I guess. But as for the actual playing graphics... it's simple cell shaded sort of figures. Which after a while really becomes impressive. I don't know if it's because you just get used to it, but it really does have its charm. It's simplistic, and the complicated set designs just make it work. I know a lot of people will be skeptical of a game because of its graphics, but I say don't be here. Because really, it's just amazing to see those figures move around on the screen and interact with the scenery. The set designs really are amazing to look at. visually I think it's nice, and artistic.
As game play goes it is a puzzle game, you manipulate objects to set a series of events to make something happen. Like you go back in time to prevent a death, which you are on a time limit. I have read reviews which says the puzzles at the end of the game are easier, but I don't think so. There is perhaps one puzzle in the submarine which could be classed as easy, simply because it's very quick and easy, but the puzzles before and after are still hard. And halfway through the game your roaming abilities are taken away from you. so the game does become more linear, but I think that just picks up the pace of the game, which is important because the characters are working against the clock. Seeing as it is a story focused game I really don't think it matters whether or not it becomes more linear. There are some really interesting puzzles which takes some really out of the box thinking to solve. I think the hardest puzzle in the game was the prison break one. I was stuck on that one for ages.
And finally story. This was written by the Ace Attorney people, so yeah, its story is fantastic. When I try to explain it to my friends it just sounds stupid. It really does. But it's not really a game you can explain, it's a game you have to play. Because everything makes sense within the game. I don't think there were any plot holes, the game ties up everything neatly together. You don't have to question anything at the end because you find out the answers. It has two very interesting twists, which if you're like me aren't difficult to figure out because of the hints dropped. Not to say you're entirely sure whether your suspicions are true until presented with the answers. Its a great mystery game in the way it really does make you want to find out the next bit of the story. It has good humor, and good writing, and if you let the game pull you in you will play it until you finish it. I must complain a little about the forced 'ghost tricks' tag and the weird running joke it had of people commenting on something or someone being weird and the two ghost characters at the time going 'me too', maybe amusing the first time, not so much the seventh time.
If you're wondering whether it's worth the buy, I would say yes. It's not a game you need a walk through on either, sure some of the puzzles are really hard, but because it is a puzzle game you can work it out by yourself through trial and error. And sometimes the failed results are funny. I remember when I got a combination wrong which earned a dead character a face full of hard hat, it was hilarious to watch. I think there might be some different combination to solve different puzzles too. I know it was hinted at in the prison break out that there was two ways to sneak him out. I'm not sure if other puzzles have that seeing I just solved them my way. but I'm sure cleverer people than me can figure that out. Sure it has the disadvantage of once you know the ending, that's it. But honestly I think I would happily play it again, simply because it was an enjoyable story. That's the great thing about games with a heavily focused story, you do want to play it again, just to experience the story. Plus with a game like this the game play is really easy, and doesn't hinder the story telling because the game play works hand in hand in telling the story. which is great. It really is like an interactive book. Which if you're like me, who loves good stories and good games which are fun to play, then yeah, you'll love this one.
But whatever, that's just Japanese design I guess. But as for the actual playing graphics... it's simple cell shaded sort of figures. Which after a while really becomes impressive. I don't know if it's because you just get used to it, but it really does have its charm. It's simplistic, and the complicated set designs just make it work. I know a lot of people will be skeptical of a game because of its graphics, but I say don't be here. Because really, it's just amazing to see those figures move around on the screen and interact with the scenery. The set designs really are amazing to look at. visually I think it's nice, and artistic.
As game play goes it is a puzzle game, you manipulate objects to set a series of events to make something happen. Like you go back in time to prevent a death, which you are on a time limit. I have read reviews which says the puzzles at the end of the game are easier, but I don't think so. There is perhaps one puzzle in the submarine which could be classed as easy, simply because it's very quick and easy, but the puzzles before and after are still hard. And halfway through the game your roaming abilities are taken away from you. so the game does become more linear, but I think that just picks up the pace of the game, which is important because the characters are working against the clock. Seeing as it is a story focused game I really don't think it matters whether or not it becomes more linear. There are some really interesting puzzles which takes some really out of the box thinking to solve. I think the hardest puzzle in the game was the prison break one. I was stuck on that one for ages.
And finally story. This was written by the Ace Attorney people, so yeah, its story is fantastic. When I try to explain it to my friends it just sounds stupid. It really does. But it's not really a game you can explain, it's a game you have to play. Because everything makes sense within the game. I don't think there were any plot holes, the game ties up everything neatly together. You don't have to question anything at the end because you find out the answers. It has two very interesting twists, which if you're like me aren't difficult to figure out because of the hints dropped. Not to say you're entirely sure whether your suspicions are true until presented with the answers. Its a great mystery game in the way it really does make you want to find out the next bit of the story. It has good humor, and good writing, and if you let the game pull you in you will play it until you finish it. I must complain a little about the forced 'ghost tricks' tag and the weird running joke it had of people commenting on something or someone being weird and the two ghost characters at the time going 'me too', maybe amusing the first time, not so much the seventh time.
If you're wondering whether it's worth the buy, I would say yes. It's not a game you need a walk through on either, sure some of the puzzles are really hard, but because it is a puzzle game you can work it out by yourself through trial and error. And sometimes the failed results are funny. I remember when I got a combination wrong which earned a dead character a face full of hard hat, it was hilarious to watch. I think there might be some different combination to solve different puzzles too. I know it was hinted at in the prison break out that there was two ways to sneak him out. I'm not sure if other puzzles have that seeing I just solved them my way. but I'm sure cleverer people than me can figure that out. Sure it has the disadvantage of once you know the ending, that's it. But honestly I think I would happily play it again, simply because it was an enjoyable story. That's the great thing about games with a heavily focused story, you do want to play it again, just to experience the story. Plus with a game like this the game play is really easy, and doesn't hinder the story telling because the game play works hand in hand in telling the story. which is great. It really is like an interactive book. Which if you're like me, who loves good stories and good games which are fun to play, then yeah, you'll love this one.
Oops...
Wow I write really long ramble posts... I really shouldn't. In fact I know I shouldn't. I need to cut them down. This is why this is called Off on a Tangent. Because that is what I do. Just go on and on about stuff.
I need some direction~ I also notice I'm getting a few more hits more often. I wouldn't mind an audience to write to. So if you're a reader who keeps coming back, for... I don't know, because you like reading my long posts, or just like the writing style. Please leave a comment, just saying what you'd like to read in future. Or what you like about my blog.
I have been thinking about doing a few blog comics. Would people like that? Or more game reviews. I have just finished Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective. I could review that. Or I could go back to trying to finish Golden Sun? Or some more political commentaries? Not that I'm the best political aware person. I'm just a Hetelia and Scandinavia and the world fan. Like I've said before, I only keep up with politics for the subtext. And I don't think I'm the best in the world at interpreting that.
So yeah, if you like this blog, just tell me what you'd like to read more of, and I'll get on that. Should I do some film things without the review? I don't know what I'd talk about on them... I'm really self conscious about my voice to be honest. ^_^() but I do like dressing up and acting. And if you like this blog, please give us a follow, and tell your friends.
So yeah, remember, I can't improve or give you what you'd like unless you tell me. ;-)
I need some direction~ I also notice I'm getting a few more hits more often. I wouldn't mind an audience to write to. So if you're a reader who keeps coming back, for... I don't know, because you like reading my long posts, or just like the writing style. Please leave a comment, just saying what you'd like to read in future. Or what you like about my blog.
I have been thinking about doing a few blog comics. Would people like that? Or more game reviews. I have just finished Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective. I could review that. Or I could go back to trying to finish Golden Sun? Or some more political commentaries? Not that I'm the best political aware person. I'm just a Hetelia and Scandinavia and the world fan. Like I've said before, I only keep up with politics for the subtext. And I don't think I'm the best in the world at interpreting that.
So yeah, if you like this blog, just tell me what you'd like to read more of, and I'll get on that. Should I do some film things without the review? I don't know what I'd talk about on them... I'm really self conscious about my voice to be honest. ^_^() but I do like dressing up and acting. And if you like this blog, please give us a follow, and tell your friends.
So yeah, remember, I can't improve or give you what you'd like unless you tell me. ;-)
In theory and in practice
Learning new things is hard. Especially if you are like me, dyslexic. It takes longer to understand things, because it processes differently, or because you simply forget. (Yes dyslexia affects the memory.) As a person a lot of the things I am good at is self taught. I taught myself to draw from pictures off the internet. Pressure from people on forums forced me to improve my spelling and grammar, which I then had to teach myself because by that point I was too old to be taught it in school, and thus why I'm so terrible at it. I then had to style my writing in a certain way to make these people happy. The two things that aren't amazing talents, but they are my talents I worked on by myself, I improved upon by myself. But doing things by yourself only gets you so far, which is perhaps why I chose to do my Creative Writing and English Literature degree. And it is why I chose to do a Professional Writing MA. Because while I am a creative person, getting what is in my head to paper has always been difficult, and perhaps will always be difficult. But I have to do my best to aid the process, because at the end of the day we must help ourselves. What can I say? I have a rather Victorian mentality when it comes to dreams and ambitions associated with work.
So being the overly creative person I am, I of course wanted to up the media a bit like I have mentioned before, with film. I don't know how many people have ever tried to make a film without ever being taught any of the skills associated with it. I really am not technologically savvy. I could probably fix a few technoloigcal issues with a computer. But if my computer properly breaks then I don't have a clue. Like mobile phones and cameras. I can use them, but I don't know how to use them efficiently.
So yeah, started on my little review, and from the start I hit snags. First I didn't know how to get the content off a DVD. but I succeeded in the end and then was faced to editing the parts of the dvd I wanted in movie maker because I didn't want to buy an editing program. Movie maker crashed every time I made an edit. Plus the audio and the visuals had to be edited separately. So getting tired of that I decided to look at other editing programs, only to realize I already had another editing program on my computer. I tend to forget I have adobe until I have to use it. Mainly because I only use the paint program. So I open up premier and it gives me a very fancy editing thing. I'm like, whoooah. I have no clue how to use this! It's a lot more complicated than movie maker let me tell you. But I am determined. So you import the film, and I put it on the line. but the audio doesn't come up. I can only presume this has something to do the initial discs copy write protection. It's annoying if you have no interest in stealing the film. I buy all my films, only because piracy = crappy quality. You pay for what you get folks. and waiting a few months for dvd prices to drop really isn't that bad. But yeah, now have to figure out how to get audio. I knew I had audio in movie maker, so I knew there must be some way to get audio off the thing. So more internet hunting, get a program, get the audio, put audio underneath images. and yessss, it's in sync and it works. And when you accomplish this silly simple thing with no real knowledge on how to do it properly it feels surprisingly good. And then there is going through the film again, to tag up what you want to include.... yeah... yeah... no... urgh... so... so boring... It kind of down trod your entire effort to sit there, trying to feel smug for being clever and trying to pay enough attention to Dan Brown rubbish to tag up all the stupid things you might want to include.
So yeah... where was I going with this? Umm... Learning new things is fun and rewarding. Doing new things after you have learned it not so much... I suppose it'll become more fun when I have to do the actual editing, and then record my own stuff, and try and work it together. That should be fun. Right? I'm sure I will hold a huge grudge to Dan Brown after all this. I think I'll probably struggle some more with the editing software after this. I mean getting the thing into the editing program is like the easy part. Making a half decent product is the tricky part. definitely if you have zero experience. But we'll see right? Learning through doing~
So being the overly creative person I am, I of course wanted to up the media a bit like I have mentioned before, with film. I don't know how many people have ever tried to make a film without ever being taught any of the skills associated with it. I really am not technologically savvy. I could probably fix a few technoloigcal issues with a computer. But if my computer properly breaks then I don't have a clue. Like mobile phones and cameras. I can use them, but I don't know how to use them efficiently.
So yeah, started on my little review, and from the start I hit snags. First I didn't know how to get the content off a DVD. but I succeeded in the end and then was faced to editing the parts of the dvd I wanted in movie maker because I didn't want to buy an editing program. Movie maker crashed every time I made an edit. Plus the audio and the visuals had to be edited separately. So getting tired of that I decided to look at other editing programs, only to realize I already had another editing program on my computer. I tend to forget I have adobe until I have to use it. Mainly because I only use the paint program. So I open up premier and it gives me a very fancy editing thing. I'm like, whoooah. I have no clue how to use this! It's a lot more complicated than movie maker let me tell you. But I am determined. So you import the film, and I put it on the line. but the audio doesn't come up. I can only presume this has something to do the initial discs copy write protection. It's annoying if you have no interest in stealing the film. I buy all my films, only because piracy = crappy quality. You pay for what you get folks. and waiting a few months for dvd prices to drop really isn't that bad. But yeah, now have to figure out how to get audio. I knew I had audio in movie maker, so I knew there must be some way to get audio off the thing. So more internet hunting, get a program, get the audio, put audio underneath images. and yessss, it's in sync and it works. And when you accomplish this silly simple thing with no real knowledge on how to do it properly it feels surprisingly good. And then there is going through the film again, to tag up what you want to include.... yeah... yeah... no... urgh... so... so boring... It kind of down trod your entire effort to sit there, trying to feel smug for being clever and trying to pay enough attention to Dan Brown rubbish to tag up all the stupid things you might want to include.
So yeah... where was I going with this? Umm... Learning new things is fun and rewarding. Doing new things after you have learned it not so much... I suppose it'll become more fun when I have to do the actual editing, and then record my own stuff, and try and work it together. That should be fun. Right? I'm sure I will hold a huge grudge to Dan Brown after all this. I think I'll probably struggle some more with the editing software after this. I mean getting the thing into the editing program is like the easy part. Making a half decent product is the tricky part. definitely if you have zero experience. But we'll see right? Learning through doing~
Monday 14 February 2011
Lonely Hearts Day
Happy Lonely Hearts day to all you single people out there. Remember on this day you are truly liberated in knowing that you are free to go out and have fun. While your dating friends are getting yelled at for not buying adequate presents. And remember, you are not truly alone when with friends.
Sunday 13 February 2011
Bad Games
Do you know what I hate? (Besides everything, hohoho.) Bad Games. No... Actually I can bare with bad games. What I really hate is bad games which could have been good. I've been playing Divinity 2: The Dragon Saga. And you know, it has a lot which makes it a good game. It really does. It has nice graphics, niceish dialogue, lots of cool gear, nice dungeons, so on and so forth. It's a bit hard. and you can turn into a dragon. But what it fails on is clarity.
So I complete first mission to kill ghost in cellar, commander tells me good job, she and the rest are going to kill the dragon. okay I say, what do I do? the game gives me nothing. No quest or direction. Alright I think, I'll go do that tower quest I have seeing you've left me with no main quest. I wonder along and finally run into the plot lying in my path. A dying dragon. she gives me dragon powers and tells me that a great evil is going to befall the world. no real explanation. just shows you evil stuff, and now you have to stop the evil. but first to the tower! So I go to the tower, the monsters around it are too over powerful, I go down a difficulty level and still struggle but I kill them, I get to the tower and it is locked. Okay, I go around to the other entrance. That one is locked too... wonderful. I scower around its base and find a third entrance. That doesn't even have a handle. Now what? I check my inventory for any books about the tower. I have none. there are some platforms which in a good game I could get the character to jump across to and jump over the gates. But this is not a good game where the character can grab ledges and pull itself up. or manage well jumping across platforms. in fact, I am convinced that the platforms are just to tease me, as if saying "You wish this was a platforming game don't you?" It's times like these I wish every RPG had tried to be like Prince of Persia.
So now what? I check the near by dungeon where the skeletons were, nothing. I go back to villager to talk to the priest who gave me the original tower quest. nothing. Nothing in this game tells me how to get into this rotten tower! And if I go to a walk through and find that I do need to use precision platforming with a character who can't grip ledges I will scream.
So yes, I hate games that think non-linear means don't tell the player shit. Urgh, I'll probably end up wandering the game trying to find more mysterious leavers to pull in hope that it'll win me some open doors in the tower. But I bet it wont. Or I'll give up. Being able to turn into a dragon just isn't worth this level of hassle, and I own far better RPG's to waste my time on.
So I complete first mission to kill ghost in cellar, commander tells me good job, she and the rest are going to kill the dragon. okay I say, what do I do? the game gives me nothing. No quest or direction. Alright I think, I'll go do that tower quest I have seeing you've left me with no main quest. I wonder along and finally run into the plot lying in my path. A dying dragon. she gives me dragon powers and tells me that a great evil is going to befall the world. no real explanation. just shows you evil stuff, and now you have to stop the evil. but first to the tower! So I go to the tower, the monsters around it are too over powerful, I go down a difficulty level and still struggle but I kill them, I get to the tower and it is locked. Okay, I go around to the other entrance. That one is locked too... wonderful. I scower around its base and find a third entrance. That doesn't even have a handle. Now what? I check my inventory for any books about the tower. I have none. there are some platforms which in a good game I could get the character to jump across to and jump over the gates. But this is not a good game where the character can grab ledges and pull itself up. or manage well jumping across platforms. in fact, I am convinced that the platforms are just to tease me, as if saying "You wish this was a platforming game don't you?" It's times like these I wish every RPG had tried to be like Prince of Persia.
So now what? I check the near by dungeon where the skeletons were, nothing. I go back to villager to talk to the priest who gave me the original tower quest. nothing. Nothing in this game tells me how to get into this rotten tower! And if I go to a walk through and find that I do need to use precision platforming with a character who can't grip ledges I will scream.
So yes, I hate games that think non-linear means don't tell the player shit. Urgh, I'll probably end up wandering the game trying to find more mysterious leavers to pull in hope that it'll win me some open doors in the tower. But I bet it wont. Or I'll give up. Being able to turn into a dragon just isn't worth this level of hassle, and I own far better RPG's to waste my time on.
Saturday 12 February 2011
Just a post
I should really update this more. But it's hard to come up with things to write about every day. Let alone every week. So I guess I'll ramble on about what's been keeping my interest in the news lately. At the moment it's the government Vs the European Court of Human Rights on prisoners right to vote.
When I first saw this story start in the paper months ago I thought to myself "Prisoners being able to vote? That's not going to ever happen." Anyone who thinks otherwise is just stupid. Well... it's understandable to think they might, after all the ECHR has pushed the government into doing a lot of things. I find it a little bizarre that it's prisoner voting that they put their foot down on. I mean it's just prisoners, they're not going to vote anyway even if you give it to them. Well some might, but the majority wont. A lot of people already don't vote and they're not even behind bars. But tangents aside I found the story interesting, just to see it develop. and shock horror, the government doesn't want prisoners to vote either.
So what does this mean now? Overly excited newspapers like the daily mail and the Exspress seem all excited for the UK to get kicked out of the EU. It made me laugh when the Daily Mail wrote that David Cameron "is also expected to announce within weeks that the Government is setting up an independent commission to draw up plans to rebalance human rights laws by creating a new British Bill of Rights."
Oh bless, they would love that wouldn't they? They really would. To make a British Bill of Rights so that we can give the middle finger to the ECHR and tit off to happy UK land. If true then it's nothing more than a political middle finger. Because I guess politicians are just as immature as 12 year old school boys. I wouldn't be shocked if this turned into a political 'who has the biggest dick' competition, which would of course end up with someone being the metaphorical bitch.
When I first saw this story start in the paper months ago I thought to myself "Prisoners being able to vote? That's not going to ever happen." Anyone who thinks otherwise is just stupid. Well... it's understandable to think they might, after all the ECHR has pushed the government into doing a lot of things. I find it a little bizarre that it's prisoner voting that they put their foot down on. I mean it's just prisoners, they're not going to vote anyway even if you give it to them. Well some might, but the majority wont. A lot of people already don't vote and they're not even behind bars. But tangents aside I found the story interesting, just to see it develop. and shock horror, the government doesn't want prisoners to vote either.
So what does this mean now? Overly excited newspapers like the daily mail and the Exspress seem all excited for the UK to get kicked out of the EU. It made me laugh when the Daily Mail wrote that David Cameron "is also expected to announce within weeks that the Government is setting up an independent commission to draw up plans to rebalance human rights laws by creating a new British Bill of Rights."
Oh bless, they would love that wouldn't they? They really would. To make a British Bill of Rights so that we can give the middle finger to the ECHR and tit off to happy UK land. If true then it's nothing more than a political middle finger. Because I guess politicians are just as immature as 12 year old school boys. I wouldn't be shocked if this turned into a political 'who has the biggest dick' competition, which would of course end up with someone being the metaphorical bitch.
Saturday 5 February 2011
Features
So I've taken the big step, I've sent an idea pitch to a magazine. It's a very scary first big step. If it gets rejected then no biggie. I'll be crushed for a little bit, but I'll move on. And by move on I mean probably not pitch another idea to a magazine for a while.
I'm excited about the prospect of being accepted. It'll be a first, but there has to be a first for everything, and it is a field that I'm sure I can write an interesting article about. If it gets accepted... and if it gets published... and if I get paid... then... wow... that would be amazing.
Really I would. Because, I don't think you can really call yourself a 'professional writer' until someone pays for your writing. Just like I would never consider myself a 'professional comic artist' for over five years because I never earned a penny. and to be able to earn that badge would be awesome...
....Also it would be the first step on the way to fame! Hahahaha... Pfffffffffffffffft!
I'm excited about the prospect of being accepted. It'll be a first, but there has to be a first for everything, and it is a field that I'm sure I can write an interesting article about. If it gets accepted... and if it gets published... and if I get paid... then... wow... that would be amazing.
Really I would. Because, I don't think you can really call yourself a 'professional writer' until someone pays for your writing. Just like I would never consider myself a 'professional comic artist' for over five years because I never earned a penny. and to be able to earn that badge would be awesome...
....Also it would be the first step on the way to fame! Hahahaha... Pfffffffffffffffft!
Monday 31 January 2011
The Obsession
Has anyone ever experienced 'The Obsession'? I'm sure I can't be the only one. You're just minding your own business and then you come across something you love. It can be something absurd and simple, but once you've found it you can't stop thinking about it, you've got to keep focused on it. You spend every second of every day googling and you tubing everything associated with it!
That is 'The Obsession'. Sometimes it can be a good thing. Definitely if it's work related. I do some of my best work when I'm on obsession mode. So worked up about something and so inspired that I write out masterpieces. Which once the obsession runs it course I instantly forget about. Because of course, Obsessions die. But my obsessions tend to be more focused on other peoples works. Which is okay, because they inspire me to go into obsessive creative mode too.
I can still sort of remember my main obsessions. Mainly because they tend to last months rather than days or weeks:
1. Dragon Ball Z: Sad but true. As a kid I was obsessed with this show. I spent every single bit of free time on DBZ fan sites, and writing bad fan fiction. It is the only show I have written fan fiction for. Mainly because my parents found my idolizing writing and laughed at it. So now I no longer write fan fiction.
2. Pokemon: Yeah, still a little obsessed on this one. In that I buy all the games, even though I haven't completed a game since emerald green. Sad I know. >.< GOTTA CATCH THEM ALL SUCKAS!
3. Harry Potter: Mainly because it was the first big book I read. The first four books I have read over ten times. If I had no new books to read I would just read them again. I knew these books so well I could quote paragraphs. PARAGRAPHS! But this obsession pretty much ended around the same time the first movie came out, followed by the 5th book. Worse on top of worse! So yeah, used to love them, knew every single thing about them, now I hardly remember anything.
4. House: I probably did have obsessions before House, bu I can't remember them. So, they weren't true long period obsessions. I love House. I have box-sets 1-5. when I started watching the shows I could re-watch episodes up to three times. I was a shameless fan. Even now when new episodes come out, if they're really good ones I'll just watch them again on the same day. No shame there. I love House. My flat mate scorns me for my love. He thinks Hugh Laurie should of stuck to the old stuff he was doing. I tell him that his career has moved on from then. And House is amazing. I never feel like House is trying to stupidfy itself for its audience. It is definitely one of the best American dramas.
5. Hetelia: NO THIS IS NOT JAPANESE PORN! Hetelia and Hentai are two different things. Hetelia means Italy in Japanese I think. Cause it's a little anime about Italy personified.... well it's about the countries of the world personified, and it's mostly focused on the period around World War 2. Each episode is about 5-6 minutes long. It was a online webcomic before it became an anime, and I did read the webcomic before watching the anime. They're both a little different, I think the webcomic is perhaps funnier than the anime. Unless it's English dubs. Because the English dubbed version of Hetelia is hilarious. They use accents and everything. and you don't really feel too bad about laughing at it because Hetelia makes fun of pretty much every country. Every single stereotype is probably in there. I love their personification of England and France. So cute! Definitely worth watching. And try not to get too obsessed. It is good. x3
So what is my new obsession which inspired this post? Minecraft. I wasn't going to play, it and now I did, and now all I can think about is bloody Minecraft. The worlds most simplest game. What's it about? Mining and crafting! Duh! and that's basically it. But if you dare play it you will lose a day. Seriously. It is one of those games that you can forget to to eat after playing it. It sucks you in, especially if you have a project. and then next thing you know it's 1am and you haven't eaten since yesterday. So I guess this is why I'm writing this. To warn the world of Minecraft. You might think it looks like pixerlated polygrammed shit, but you play it and you will be lost to us all! It takes allot of self control to sit here and write this and not just go on it and play. It really really does. I am planning what to build, where to dig my mine, so and so forth >.< It's like harvest moon! but more addictive!!! So this is a note to the world. Do not play Minecraft. Unless you have allot of free time on your hands. Because you might mean to do work, and then you play it and BAM! There goes your work time..... Obsession is an evil thing indeed. definitely when added to addictive games >.<
That is 'The Obsession'. Sometimes it can be a good thing. Definitely if it's work related. I do some of my best work when I'm on obsession mode. So worked up about something and so inspired that I write out masterpieces. Which once the obsession runs it course I instantly forget about. Because of course, Obsessions die. But my obsessions tend to be more focused on other peoples works. Which is okay, because they inspire me to go into obsessive creative mode too.
I can still sort of remember my main obsessions. Mainly because they tend to last months rather than days or weeks:
1. Dragon Ball Z: Sad but true. As a kid I was obsessed with this show. I spent every single bit of free time on DBZ fan sites, and writing bad fan fiction. It is the only show I have written fan fiction for. Mainly because my parents found my idolizing writing and laughed at it. So now I no longer write fan fiction.
2. Pokemon: Yeah, still a little obsessed on this one. In that I buy all the games, even though I haven't completed a game since emerald green. Sad I know. >.< GOTTA CATCH THEM ALL SUCKAS!
3. Harry Potter: Mainly because it was the first big book I read. The first four books I have read over ten times. If I had no new books to read I would just read them again. I knew these books so well I could quote paragraphs. PARAGRAPHS! But this obsession pretty much ended around the same time the first movie came out, followed by the 5th book. Worse on top of worse! So yeah, used to love them, knew every single thing about them, now I hardly remember anything.
4. House: I probably did have obsessions before House, bu I can't remember them. So, they weren't true long period obsessions. I love House. I have box-sets 1-5. when I started watching the shows I could re-watch episodes up to three times. I was a shameless fan. Even now when new episodes come out, if they're really good ones I'll just watch them again on the same day. No shame there. I love House. My flat mate scorns me for my love. He thinks Hugh Laurie should of stuck to the old stuff he was doing. I tell him that his career has moved on from then. And House is amazing. I never feel like House is trying to stupidfy itself for its audience. It is definitely one of the best American dramas.
5. Hetelia: NO THIS IS NOT JAPANESE PORN! Hetelia and Hentai are two different things. Hetelia means Italy in Japanese I think. Cause it's a little anime about Italy personified.... well it's about the countries of the world personified, and it's mostly focused on the period around World War 2. Each episode is about 5-6 minutes long. It was a online webcomic before it became an anime, and I did read the webcomic before watching the anime. They're both a little different, I think the webcomic is perhaps funnier than the anime. Unless it's English dubs. Because the English dubbed version of Hetelia is hilarious. They use accents and everything. and you don't really feel too bad about laughing at it because Hetelia makes fun of pretty much every country. Every single stereotype is probably in there. I love their personification of England and France. So cute! Definitely worth watching. And try not to get too obsessed. It is good. x3
So what is my new obsession which inspired this post? Minecraft. I wasn't going to play, it and now I did, and now all I can think about is bloody Minecraft. The worlds most simplest game. What's it about? Mining and crafting! Duh! and that's basically it. But if you dare play it you will lose a day. Seriously. It is one of those games that you can forget to to eat after playing it. It sucks you in, especially if you have a project. and then next thing you know it's 1am and you haven't eaten since yesterday. So I guess this is why I'm writing this. To warn the world of Minecraft. You might think it looks like pixerlated polygrammed shit, but you play it and you will be lost to us all! It takes allot of self control to sit here and write this and not just go on it and play. It really really does. I am planning what to build, where to dig my mine, so and so forth >.< It's like harvest moon! but more addictive!!! So this is a note to the world. Do not play Minecraft. Unless you have allot of free time on your hands. Because you might mean to do work, and then you play it and BAM! There goes your work time..... Obsession is an evil thing indeed. definitely when added to addictive games >.<
Thursday 20 January 2011
Men
It's coming to that time already where months have passed since my last relationship, and I'm starting to feel like I wouldn't mind a new one. But at the same time, as much as I would like a relationship, I shy away from the idea. Because relationships are allot of upkeep and effort. Not that I really try that hard in upkeep and effort.
But to be honest it's not the upkeep and effort that really repels me. I'm all for that. I had a live in boyfriend for a year, and that was great. but then, when you stay with a guy long enough you realise they're just... well, jerks. All in their own way. But my ex-boyfriends all seem to be jerks in the same way. Even my male friend is exactly the same.
1: they treat me like my opinion holds no value what so ever. When opinion is backed up with facts.
This isn't just my flatmate who disriguards anything that comes out of my mouth that comes close to a personal opinion or information. but allot of my previous boyfriends did it too. And very patronizing about it too. I don't know why. It's not like I pick sexist pigs to date. Because I don't. and it doesn't come across when you first know them. but after a few months you really start to notice the throw away comments they make after something you say which makes you think they don't really care, because they think they're right. and then you know they just become complacent with the idea that you're an idiot or something. I'm not an idiot. And I'm sick and tired of being treated like one.
2: Hurr hurr boobs.
You know, back in secondary school, when I wore thick glasses and had my hair done up in a pony tail I never had this problem. Guys thought I was a geek because I read lots of books, and played a few games. I was a social outcast. I mean geeze, I didn't even have boobs till I went to university. and since arriving there is the "OMG BOOBS" element of guys. Guys who approach because I'm attractive. Which I generally ignore. But the guys who I've dated at university... well... sure we had things in common, but it soon came apparent that they really only liked me for one thing. Pretty looks. Big chest. Fuck off you men.
So when entertaining the idea of finding a new boyfriend I can't help but wiggle my nose and think: no. no I don't want to date you sexist pigs. I mean, I might find a guy like my first boyfriend, who was wonderful, but started treating me like an idiot towards the end of our relationship. Screw that, I might want a boyfriend, but I don't need a boyfriend. Not right now anyway. Just URK.
I know I could just go back to how I used to look. But that did nothing for my self esteem. And I like looking nice, I don't try as hard as some girls. but it works. whatever... Whatever I say!
But to be honest it's not the upkeep and effort that really repels me. I'm all for that. I had a live in boyfriend for a year, and that was great. but then, when you stay with a guy long enough you realise they're just... well, jerks. All in their own way. But my ex-boyfriends all seem to be jerks in the same way. Even my male friend is exactly the same.
1: they treat me like my opinion holds no value what so ever. When opinion is backed up with facts.
This isn't just my flatmate who disriguards anything that comes out of my mouth that comes close to a personal opinion or information. but allot of my previous boyfriends did it too. And very patronizing about it too. I don't know why. It's not like I pick sexist pigs to date. Because I don't. and it doesn't come across when you first know them. but after a few months you really start to notice the throw away comments they make after something you say which makes you think they don't really care, because they think they're right. and then you know they just become complacent with the idea that you're an idiot or something. I'm not an idiot. And I'm sick and tired of being treated like one.
2: Hurr hurr boobs.
You know, back in secondary school, when I wore thick glasses and had my hair done up in a pony tail I never had this problem. Guys thought I was a geek because I read lots of books, and played a few games. I was a social outcast. I mean geeze, I didn't even have boobs till I went to university. and since arriving there is the "OMG BOOBS" element of guys. Guys who approach because I'm attractive. Which I generally ignore. But the guys who I've dated at university... well... sure we had things in common, but it soon came apparent that they really only liked me for one thing. Pretty looks. Big chest. Fuck off you men.
So when entertaining the idea of finding a new boyfriend I can't help but wiggle my nose and think: no. no I don't want to date you sexist pigs. I mean, I might find a guy like my first boyfriend, who was wonderful, but started treating me like an idiot towards the end of our relationship. Screw that, I might want a boyfriend, but I don't need a boyfriend. Not right now anyway. Just URK.
I know I could just go back to how I used to look. But that did nothing for my self esteem. And I like looking nice, I don't try as hard as some girls. but it works. whatever... Whatever I say!
Tuesday 18 January 2011
Comedian
When doing my BA(hons) I was watching allot of comedy, because I was writing mostly comedy pieces. I like to write stories with a funny edge to them, whether it be black humor or light. but in that period I decided I wanted to be a Comedian. Until I decided I wasn't funny. I told this to my bed mate at the time (long story, involves stolen shoes,) and she was like "what are you talking about? You're the funniest person I know!"
It's weird to say I don't think I'm funny I realize, when my web comic is meant to be funny. And I am often told by readers it is the most funniest thing they have ever read as well. And most the time I'm not purposefully being funny. But once when I went back and read some of it, just to go over what I'd already done, I realized that I'd managed to do allot of accidental satire. I realized I'd captured allot more humor than ever intended. So I don't know, maybe I'm just a natural at writing such stuff.
But lately, I have been having that train of thought again. Maybe it's because of my mission to become a famous person. Or because I watch these comedians and think: I can do that. Not that I'd want to... I mean... I'm pretty stage shy. And I hate my voice. I think I have such a childish voice. and I can't even hear it. But i listen to it on video or mic and it just sounds so BAD! I hate it! It's not a comedian's voice, or even a famous persons voice. It is just a bad voice. But if I keep thinking about this route, I am going to feel more and more like I could do it. Not that I'd know how. Or have the confidence to do it. I feel like such a female David Mitchell. but perhaps less socially awkward.... but not that much less.
It's weird to say I don't think I'm funny I realize, when my web comic is meant to be funny. And I am often told by readers it is the most funniest thing they have ever read as well. And most the time I'm not purposefully being funny. But once when I went back and read some of it, just to go over what I'd already done, I realized that I'd managed to do allot of accidental satire. I realized I'd captured allot more humor than ever intended. So I don't know, maybe I'm just a natural at writing such stuff.
But lately, I have been having that train of thought again. Maybe it's because of my mission to become a famous person. Or because I watch these comedians and think: I can do that. Not that I'd want to... I mean... I'm pretty stage shy. And I hate my voice. I think I have such a childish voice. and I can't even hear it. But i listen to it on video or mic and it just sounds so BAD! I hate it! It's not a comedian's voice, or even a famous persons voice. It is just a bad voice. But if I keep thinking about this route, I am going to feel more and more like I could do it. Not that I'd know how. Or have the confidence to do it. I feel like such a female David Mitchell. but perhaps less socially awkward.... but not that much less.
Friday 7 January 2011
The image
To be famous you need an image. A fake representation of yourself. Well. As far as I can tell that is what you need. An image that everyone sees. All smokes and mirrors. So this is the image people love. Kind of like what Lady Gaga has done. she has made her entire being a show for everyone to watch, just waiting for it to fall down in ruin.
So I have been putting allot of thought into what image I want to portray myself as. I am a boring person. I love to read, draw and play computer games. I would rather sit indoors playing Mass Effect or reading a new book, or trying to write my own than go out and party. But such boring characteristics do not get you famous.
so the only solution is to make oneself as eccentric as possible.
There is actually a style of dress that I personally love. But I never wear. I love old styled English clothes, I love Gothic clothes, I love anything in the military style. I love it. and so, it seems only natural to me to make a personality out of these things that I love. Which I think makes me look a little stereotypical English when added together. But who cares right? As long as I look pretty and pull it off. We shall see, we shall see.
As my first step into fame will be.... Internet videos! Thus why I need an image. Do you see where this is going? Something that can establish me as a writer, a reader, and an authoritative voice of reason! Why yes, I'm going to do video reviews. It only seems like the natural step. First the Internet! And then... the world!
So I have been putting allot of thought into what image I want to portray myself as. I am a boring person. I love to read, draw and play computer games. I would rather sit indoors playing Mass Effect or reading a new book, or trying to write my own than go out and party. But such boring characteristics do not get you famous.
so the only solution is to make oneself as eccentric as possible.
There is actually a style of dress that I personally love. But I never wear. I love old styled English clothes, I love Gothic clothes, I love anything in the military style. I love it. and so, it seems only natural to me to make a personality out of these things that I love. Which I think makes me look a little stereotypical English when added together. But who cares right? As long as I look pretty and pull it off. We shall see, we shall see.
As my first step into fame will be.... Internet videos! Thus why I need an image. Do you see where this is going? Something that can establish me as a writer, a reader, and an authoritative voice of reason! Why yes, I'm going to do video reviews. It only seems like the natural step. First the Internet! And then... the world!
Thursday 6 January 2011
The quest for fame
Being a writer I am socially inclined to hide away in a wardrobe and ignore the world. The world is a scary thing full of people. Occasionally the two mesh, my closet and the people. But I'm not really one for running out there and bumping into things. So I guess it is a strange thing to announce I do have this sort of secret quest for fame.
I've always had this feeling that it's socially unacceptable to want to be famous when you're a writer. So I've never mentioned it before. But I'm told I need to focus my blog. So I announce my beginning in my quest for fame. As a writer.
Because at the end of the day that is all I'm good for. I can't sing, I can't dance, I'm not thin, and I'm not anything special. Really it's not like I decided as a child I wanted to be famous. Because fame itself doesn't really interest me. The idea really first came around to me when I became aware of how much celebrities suck.
I personally loath the celebrity society we live in. Because people are nosy for all the wrong reasons about the wrong sort of people. I don't care about Posh and Becks, I don't care about what Gaga is wearing, I don't care how Amy whinehouse screwed up again this week! I just don't care! Stop being nosy!
I suppose it wouldn't be so bad if it was always someone talented. because you kind of want to know about people you admire. But seriously. who admires Jordan? She is utterly talentless, and her fame is ridiculous.
And it has always annoyed me personally that writers don't get this level of fame that singers or models or footballers, or whatever gets. because I think it takes allot more talent to write a book, or bring out news stories every single day or whatever, than it does to sing in tune. Lots of people can sing good, not so many can write well. And ever since this realization that writers don't get the credit that they deserved I decided that I wanted to be famous. Not just a famous writer, but a famous figure. I wanted to be known and loved by sight. I wanted to bring reading back to the people who are brain washed by pop culture! I wanted to do so much and more because you can't trust these idiots to be responsible role models! and you know what they say? If someone can't do it, then do it your damn self!
So yeah, that's why I want to be famous. Not because I particularly want to be a celebrity, but because writers deserve allot more credit than they get. So I'm not sure what one should do once they've made the decision to be famous. I suppose produce something to be famous for.
So I am releasing a warning to the world! Give me a few years and I'll be more damn famous than J.K.Rowling. That is where I am aiming for. Not too high is it? I don't think so either. ;)
I've always had this feeling that it's socially unacceptable to want to be famous when you're a writer. So I've never mentioned it before. But I'm told I need to focus my blog. So I announce my beginning in my quest for fame. As a writer.
Because at the end of the day that is all I'm good for. I can't sing, I can't dance, I'm not thin, and I'm not anything special. Really it's not like I decided as a child I wanted to be famous. Because fame itself doesn't really interest me. The idea really first came around to me when I became aware of how much celebrities suck.
I personally loath the celebrity society we live in. Because people are nosy for all the wrong reasons about the wrong sort of people. I don't care about Posh and Becks, I don't care about what Gaga is wearing, I don't care how Amy whinehouse screwed up again this week! I just don't care! Stop being nosy!
I suppose it wouldn't be so bad if it was always someone talented. because you kind of want to know about people you admire. But seriously. who admires Jordan? She is utterly talentless, and her fame is ridiculous.
And it has always annoyed me personally that writers don't get this level of fame that singers or models or footballers, or whatever gets. because I think it takes allot more talent to write a book, or bring out news stories every single day or whatever, than it does to sing in tune. Lots of people can sing good, not so many can write well. And ever since this realization that writers don't get the credit that they deserved I decided that I wanted to be famous. Not just a famous writer, but a famous figure. I wanted to be known and loved by sight. I wanted to bring reading back to the people who are brain washed by pop culture! I wanted to do so much and more because you can't trust these idiots to be responsible role models! and you know what they say? If someone can't do it, then do it your damn self!
So yeah, that's why I want to be famous. Not because I particularly want to be a celebrity, but because writers deserve allot more credit than they get. So I'm not sure what one should do once they've made the decision to be famous. I suppose produce something to be famous for.
So I am releasing a warning to the world! Give me a few years and I'll be more damn famous than J.K.Rowling. That is where I am aiming for. Not too high is it? I don't think so either. ;)
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